SPA Silver Jubilee AGM

The Salesian Psychological Association (SPA) South Asia, founded in 1999, is a non-profit group functioning under the auspices of the Salesian Provincial Conference of South Asia (SPCSA), consisting of members of the Salesian family trained in the psychological sciences, committed to deepening their professional knowledge and skills, and to offering psychological services and training, especially for those in the helping professions.

SPA South Asia celebrated its Silver Jubilee during its Annual General Body Meeting (AGM) on 17, 18 January 2025, at Don Bosco Provincial House, Bangalore.  One of the highlights was the solemn celebration of the Jubilee Mass by the Provincial, Dr. Fr. Jose Thomas Koyical SDB, who also delivered an inspiring homily. Concelebrants included the SPA President, Dr. Fr. C.M. Joseph Cherukunnel SDB, and former Presidents Dr. Fr. Jose Parappully SDB, Dr. Fr. Joe Mannath SDB, and Fr. Godfrey D’Sa SDB. In his homily, the Provincial highlighted the vital role of Salesian Psychologists in South Asia and lauded their contributions to psychological healing. To mark the occasion, a Jubilee cake was ceremonially cut by the Provincial, the President and the former Presidents.

The two-day AGM saw active participation from 24 members. Dr. Fr. C. M. Joseph Cherukunnel SDB delivered the President’s address, paying tribute to the Association’s founding members, deceased colleagues, and past office bearers. He reflected on the Association’s 25-year journey, noting significant achievements such as the formation of the Conference of Catholic Psychologists of India (CCPI), multi-city conferences, newsletters, training programmes, workshops, publications, and crisis interventions during the COVID-19 pandemic and in conflict-affected regions like Sri Lanka and Manipur. He urged members to continue extending compassionate psychological support to those in need.

The Secretary, Fr. Ajay D’Monte, presented a detailed report on the previous AGM, including highlights from four major workshops conducted across the country. The Treasurer, Fr. Binu Scaria, provided a comprehensive financial report. Members engaged themselves in a thoughtful discussion of the President’s address and the reports, offering valuable insights and feedback.

A significant focus of the AGM was an evaluation of SPA’s 25 years of achievements and planning for potential future initiatives. Members shared updates from their respective centres, fostering collaboration and the exchange of best practices. With Fr. Ajay D’Monte preparing to pursue higher studies in the Philippines, the members elected Fr. Ravi Aruldass as the new Secretary.

The Silver Jubilee gathering concluded on a positive note, with participants celebrating SPA’s legacy of service and embracing a shared vision for an impactful future.

Dr. Fr. C.M. Joseph Cherukunnel SDB

(President, SPA)